SEM image of preferred orientation of 400 nm thick rod-shaped magnetic particles.

Abstract

<p>The particles were fabricated using horizontal movement of the AAL stage and evaporation of gold/permalloy/gold tri-layers. The sample was lifted-off in TMAH solution, rinsed in DI water to remove the traces of TMAH and dried on a silicon surface in the absence of any external magnetic field. The observed preferred orientation of the particles is the result of shape anisotropy dominating the material properties. The rods’ alignment into the long-stranded pattern is the manifestation of the switching of easy axis along the length of the particles due to their shape.</p